2004 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 250 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan (286 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 90 L |
